Head down the diner-lined International Drive in Orlando, the gateway to the international theme park capital of the world. This entertainment capital started with Walt Disney's Magical Kingdom and has continued with Universal Studios, Seaworld and Wet N' Wild, to name but a few. And don't forget the many shopping malls and outlet stores to pick up a bargain.
Formally the destination of choice for local college kids on Spring Break in search of a party, recent years have seen Daytona Beach make efforts to reposition itself as a family friendly destination. Activity still centres on the 23-mile stretch of white sandy beach with the Sky Ride cable car carrying visitors over to the Main Street Pier. Automobile and motorcycle enthusiasts are drawn to the area's hard packed sands and in particular to the 168,000 capacity Daytona International Speedway, home of the great American race, the Daytona 500.
Head to the East coast and visit the exciting streets of Miami. The “Capital of Latin America” keeps itself busy all year round with a steady stream of theatre and music festivals.
The glamorous Art-Deco district of the city boasts a slew of trendy nightclubs, cocktail bars and designer fashion houses. The broad strip lining Miami Beach is a perfect spot to watch the beautiful people mix with the city's residents. It is also the gateway to visiting the steamy green Everglades an alligator filled, water-logged plain.
North of Miami is the city of Fort Lauderdale. The “Venice of America” is known for its expansive and intricate canal system as well as an abundance of marinas and boat yards. The stylish café-lined walkways appeal to the yachting crowd and a more sophisticated breed of traveller, far removed from the college crowds the city used to attract. Fort Lauderdale Beach offers three miles of perfect sands and a chic shopping and dining scene.
Located in the south eastern tip of the state are the Florida Keys, a 126-mile chain of islands that skirt within ninety miles of Cuba, linked by one straight road, the impressive Overseas Highway. There are fishing, snorkelling, and diving opportunities along the route with the Florida Reef being a particular highlight. The run of islands culminates in the town of Key West, a laid back paradise that thrives on a community of artists, bohemians and tourists all in search of the easy life.
Nestled in the West of Florida is “The Sunshine City” itself, St Petersburg. Popular amongst tourists for its downtown area and dedicated public waterfront, the St Petersburg Pier is one of the area's prominent landmarks and features sporting events and festivals all year round. Also of note is the city's impressive network of museums housing pieces chronicling the history of the US, the history of the Holocaust and the works of Salvador Dali. You are also in easy reach of the beaches of Clearwater, Tampa, Sarasota and Naples.
If you are planning a trip to Florida this year and need some help, read our fact file below and use TravelSupermarket's search to find the cheapest deals.
When to go
Weather
Florida's weather is influenced by the fact that you are never far from the sea. It is known as the Sunshine State with good reason; Florida is a great destination for year round sun. The summers are long and warm with comfortable weather flowing into the autumn months. In July, temperatures average from 32-34C and seldom exceed 38C. In January temperatures reach an average of 20C. Night-time temperatures settle around 11-16C and shouldn't dip below 4-7C.
Afternoon humidity is broken up by thunderstorms from late spring to early autumn. Its subtropical climate makes Florida the most Hurricane prone US state with mid-August to mid-October being the peak season.
Events
Gasparilla Pirate Fest; Late January; Tampa - An annual parade for all the family, the Jose Gasparilla, a fully rigged pirate ship sails into port down Seddon Channel and docks at Tampa convention centre and prepares to invade the town. The scurvy crew follow a marching band parade into downtown Tampa where the celebrations continue with live bands and a funfair
Florida Folk Festival; Last weekend in May; White Springs - Taking place across Memorial weekend each year, Florida's biggest folk festival encompasses eight stages and multiple jam tents and craftstalls. Live acoustic performances are mixed with storytelling, line dancing, children's entertainment and the best choice in local food vendors.
Ormond Beach Seafood and Blues Festival; Early May; Downtown Ormond Beach - Showcasing the best of local seafood cuisine, the festival gives visitors the chance to try locally sourced blue crabs, seasoned shrimp, mussels, clams and alligator! Live music is performed across two stages with visitors invited to join in. Children are catered for in a dedicated children's area.
Hispanic Heritage Festival; October; Palm Coast- Held every October to coincide with Hispanic heritage month, the event shows off all that is great about Hispanic cuisine, music and performance. Alongside this is the influence of American television and movie culture.
Ultra Music Festival; Bayfront Park, Miami - Held every year ahead of the summer festival season, always featuring a line-up of the biggest, most well-known DJs and acts, the festival acts as a first showcase for the tunes that are destined to soundtrack your summer months.
What to do
- Kids & teens: Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom is still Florida's most enchanting theme park. Watch the famous parade, which features everyone from Buzz Lightyear to Minnie Mouse, or head straight up Main Street USA for photos outside Cinderella's fairytale castle.
- Romance: The moonlit kayak trip from downtown Fort Lauderdale to the tranquil Las Olas Isles is a must for loved-up couples. When you step ashore, the sound of lapping waves provides the perfect soundtrack to your candlelit meal.
- Grown-up families: Adventurous members of the family will love the white-knuckle rides at Universal Studios' Islands of Adventure theme park. For something a little more relaxed, grab an ice lolly and check out one of the park's exciting all-action shows.
- Babies & toddlers: Sea World's collection of incredible creatures will leave Toddlers and adults alike staring wide-eyed. The world's largest underwater viewing tunnel brings you face to face with multi-coloured marine critters from around the world.
- Free & cheap: The beaches around Miami are perfect for families, and it costs nothing to laze around on the warm white sand. Surf lessons are a cheap way to keep the kids safely occupied for a few hours while you enjoy the sunshine.
- Active types: Keen anglers are sure to get excited about going out in search of Mahi-Mahi in the warm waters of Florida's John Pennekamp National Park. Organised trips can be booked from various towns throughout the state.
- Relaxing: Unwind on a tram ride through historic Key West, where you'll see huge beachfront houses owned by America's rich and famous. Keep your eyes peeled and you might just spot some celebs.
Related Links:
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